Archives for September 2012

My least favorite activity in the entire world when it comes to shopping, is searching for a work pant that fits. I have never once been successful or found a pant that fits my specifications entirely. For reference, I am in need of floor length work pants, slimmer in the leg (but not fully tapered), in a neutral color that is not too tight in the thigh, rear-end region, but fits at my natural waist.

Last weekend I was in need of some new full-length work pants and stopped into Ann Taylor LOFT to take a look at their selection. They have over 5 styles of work pants, and numerous denoted as “curvy” so I was optimistic.

The first is the Julie Boot Cut above. Right off the bat the pant is too tight in the hips and thighs and is not work appropriate, though it did fit at the waist and I appreciated the slimmer leg. I passed.

Marisa Trouser (wearing size 10): I didn’t originally want a trouser style pant but was desperate and decided to try this on. As with the other pants it is inappropriately tight in the hips and rear end, but this time was loose in the waist as well. Also, it sat a bit high on my waist. I like my work pants to sit a little bit lower to allow the option of tucking in without truncating my torso.

Kate Trouser (wearing size 10): The Kate trouser was my least favorite of all of them. Made in a stretchy “scuba” material, it was not at all flattering for someone with curves, and clung to everything. The tightness and pulling across the front made these an instant no.

Zoe Wide Leg Trouser (wearing size 10): My last effort was this Zoe trouser. I believe I tried this on in their “curvy” option and as you can see there is plenty of extra room in the lower tummy area. the hips and thighs fit well, but the extra room and high waist made these a pass.

I did end up stopping into J.Crew after this shopping trip and picked up a pair of work pants that fit my specifications as well as I can hope for the time being. Desperate times call for settling, and settle I did. A full review of my J.Crew buy coming soon. In the mean time, I am still on the hunt for my perfect pant!

In yesterday’s post I detailed my love for the Ann Taylor curvy slim jean. From the flattering cut to the inseam length, i’m in love. But more importantly is the easiness a timeless black jean brings to my life when it comes to packing. As a consultant I travel four days out of the week, and am on and off of airplanes more times than I would like to admit. Packing efficiently has become increasingly important and a great black jean that can easily transition from the office to a casual airplane appropriate outfit saves me time and space.

The offices I work at during the week are very conservative and also very male dominated. I work in IT and so dressing outlandishly and super fashion forward isn’t always appropriate. On days when I travel and head straight to the office I like to be comfortable but also put together, while still showing some of my style. A basic jean coupled with a frilly top and a boyfriend blazer command respect while still keeping me warm indoors, and professional.

On travel days when I have time to change before flying, I opt for cozy sweaters to keep me warm on planes, and comfortable shoes that don’t constrict my feet. While I admit that boots aren’t the most flattering on pearshape women, I love that these jeans can be easily tucked into my favorite pair and act like typical skinnies.

This poncho was a fun find I purchased years back at the LOFT outlet. It was too wide and drapey for my figure so I DIY’d a little alteration and tied the straps around my waist to give some definition rather than having it hang loose.

Readers – how do you wear your black skinnies? Are they one of your Fall staples?

If there is one item I always invest in at the beginning of Fall it is the black jean. It’s versatility is unmatched and I have so much fun pairing it with everything from casual sweaters for a Sunday brunch to sleek tops and heels for a Friday night out. My choice for jeans this year was a no brainer after ordering these gorgeous ones from Ann Taylor a few weeks back. The fit was amazing and I was eager to order another color. The slimness of the leg and the versatility of the height of the inseam pulled me in for a second pair, this time in stunning black denim.

When thinking of easy ways to pair a neutral bottom, my mind immediately goes to another neutral top accessorized with bright jewels or shoes. I am still desperately trying to get every last wear out of this peach J.Crew necklace and it provided the perfect pop of color to this otherwise very neutral outfit. Matched with my trusty gold J.Crew flats, and it was perfect weekend look.

A weekend night out requires a dramatic look. I love the subtle sexiness of this top coupled with the more demure jean bottom. Chunky jewels (which are really repurposed vintage belts), comfortable black pumps and a dramatic look were perfect for this evening of dinner and dancing.

I tend to get obsessed with certain clothing items. Case in point: this skirt, and these shoes. I love the flowyness of the skirt and the versatility of tops I can pair it with, and these shoes are just the most comfortable things ever.

This sequin top has been in my closet for nearly five years and I have worn it only a handful of times. The fit is a little baggy and I always felt that the sequins on the front made me look bigger. But when tucked into this fun skirt which beautifully defines my waist, I couldn’t help but love it.

My boyfriend and I have been exploring our new home city of Charlotte and recently stumbled upon Independence Park in the heart of Elizabeth, NC. It had the most beautiful view of the Charlotte skyline and charming waterfalls in every nook and cranny.